Reflective aiming device for basketball bank shots to target a virtual rim

Abstract

Aiming devices for training bank shots on a basketball backboard. The aiming devices comprise a reflective element capable of producing a virtual rim image suitable for training bank shots on the backboard. The aiming devices may further comprise a rim, a reflective element mounting mechanism, and a backboard support. The aiming devices disclosed herein may be stowed when not in use for training bank shots. Methods of calibrating, methods of installing, methods of affixing the reflective element to the backboard, and methods of training bank shots on the backboard are also provided herein.

Description

DESCRIPTIONREFLECTIVE AIMING DEVICE FOR BASKETBALL BANK SHOTS TO TARGET AVIRTUAL RIMCopyright Notice

[0001] A portion of the disclosure of this patent document contains material that is subject to copyright protection. The Applicant makes no objection to the facsimile reproduction of the patent as published by the United States Patent and Trademark Office, but otherwise reserves all copyright rights whatsoever.Cross-Reference to Related Applications

[0002] This utility patent application claims the benefit of U.S. Ser. No. 63 / 655,104 filed June 03, 2024, with the United States Patent and Trademark Office (“USPTO”). That provisional application is titled “Reflective Aiming Device for Basketball Bank Shots to Target a Virtual Rim,” and is incorporated herein in its entirety by reference.Statement Regarding Federally Sponsored Research or Development

[0003] Not applicable.Technical Field

[0004] The present disclosure relates to devices for assisting athletes in games in which a ball is manually directed to a desired location; more particularly, the present disclosure relates to the game of basketball and provides a virtual aiming location to assist athletes in completing bank shots off a basketball backboard.Background Art

[0005] Various sports and games involve shooting, throwing, or hitting a ball at a target to score. Some of these sports and games include a flat surface at which the ball is shot, thrown, or hit by a player for the ball to bounce off the surface at a desired angle toward the target in an attempt to score. Therefore, a need exists to create a device to improve shooting accuracy of players in sports such as basketball.

[0006] It is an object of the present disclosure to provide devices that aid players in aiming bank shots on a basketball backboard in order to improve shooting accuracy. Beneficially, the present disclosure provides players with a virtual image of a basketball rim in a reflective device to aim bank shots in basketball.Summary of the Invention

[0007] In one embodiment, an aiming device comprises a reflective element capable of producing a virtual rim image visible to a player at any shootable point on a basketball court, and at least one fastener to affix and position the reflective element relative to a backboard.

[0008] In another embodiment, an aiming device comprises a reflective element capable of producing a virtual rim image visible to a player at any shootable point on a basketball court, a backboard, a rim affixed to the backboard, and at least one fastener to affix and position the reflective element relative to the backboard.

[0009] In another embodiment, an aiming device comprises a reflective element capable of producing a virtual rim image visible to a player positioned in front of the reflective element, and at least one fastener to affix and position the reflective element relative to a backboard.

[0010] In another embodiment, an aiming device comprises a reflective element capable of producing a virtual rim image visible to a player, a backboard, a rim affixed to the backboard, and at least one fastener to affix and position the reflective element relative to the backboard.

[0011] In another embodiment, an aiming device comprises a reflective element and a backboard, wherein the reflective element and the backboard are oriented in parallel and separated by a distance.

[0012] Methods of calibrating an aiming device are also provided herein. One such method comprises the following:Obtaining a backboard and a rim;Obtaining a reflective element;Connecting the reflective element to a reflective element mounting mechanism;Connecting the reflective element mounting mechanism to the backboard;Positioning the reflective element parallel to and at a distance from the backboard; and Adjusting the distance between the reflective element and the backboard to a spacing proportional to a radius of a desired basketball.

[0013] Methods of installing an aiming device are also provided herein. One such method comprises the following:Obtaining a backboard and a rim;Optionally affixing the rim to the backboard;Optionally installing the rim and the backboard on a basketball court;Obtaining a reflective element;Attaching a reflective element mounting mechanism to the reflective element and the backboard, the method further comprising:Attaching a first end of at least one vertical member to the backboard;Attaching a second end of the at least one vertical member to a first end of a horizontal member; andAttaching a second end of the at least one horizontal member to the reflective element;Positioning the reflective element parallel to and at a distance from the backboard; and Adjusting the distance between the reflective element and the backboard to a spacing proportional to a radius of a desired basketball.

[0014] Methods of affixing an aiming device to a backboard are also provided herein. One such method comprises the following:Obtaining the backboard and a rim;Optionally affixing the rim to the backboard;Optionally installing the rim and the backboard on a basketball court;Obtaining a reflective element;Attaching a first end of at least one vertical member to the backboard;Attaching a second end of the at least one vertical member to a first end of a horizontal member;Attaching a second end of the at least one horizontal member to a reflective element; and Adjusting a distance between the backboard and the reflective element to a spacing proportional to a radius of a desired basketball.

[0015] Methods of training bank shots on a backboard are also provided herein. One such method comprises the following:Obtaining the backboard and a rim;Optionally affixing the rim to the backboard;Optionally installing the rim and the backboard on a basketball court;Affixing a reflective element to the backboard;Identifying a virtual rim image in the reflective element;Aiming at the virtual rim image corresponding to a target location on the backboard; and Shooting a basketball at the virtual rim image such that the basketball contacts the target location and enters the rim to complete the bank shot.

[0016] In an alternate embodiment, methods of training bank shots on a backboard are also provided herein. One such method comprises the following:Obtaining the backboard and a rim;Optionally affixing the rim to the backboard;Optionally installing the rim and the backboard on a basketball court;Obtaining a reflective element;Attaching a reflective element mounting mechanism to the reflective element and the backboard, the method further comprising:Attaching a first end of at least one vertical member to the backboard;Attaching a second end of the at least one vertical member to a first end of a horizontal member; andAttaching a second end of the at least one horizontal member to the reflective element; Positioning the reflective element parallel to and at a distance from the backboard;Adjusting the distance between the reflective element and the backboard to a spacing proportional to a radius of a desired basketball;Identifying a virtual rim image in the reflective element;Aiming at the virtual rim image corresponding to a target location on the backboard; and Shooting the basketball at the virtual rim image such that the basketball contacts the target location and enters the rim to complete the bank shot.

[0017] While the disclosure provides certain specific embodiments, the disclosure is not limited to those embodiments. A person of ordinary skill will appreciate from the description herein that modifications can be made to the described embodiments and therefore that the specification is broader in scope than the described embodiments. All examples are therefore non-limiting.Brief Description of Drawings

[0018] Figure 1 depicts a front elevation view of one embodiment of the present disclosure comprising an aiming device. The aiming device further comprises a reflective element, a backboard, a rim, and at least one fastener to affix the reflective element to the backboard.

[0019] Figure 2 depicts a front elevation view of another embodiment of an aiming device. The aiming device further comprises a reflective element, wherein the reflective element further comprises an upper portion and a lower portion, a flexible member disposed between the upper portion and the lower portion, and a deflection device, the deflection device further comprising at least one hinge and at least one spring.

[0020] Figure 3 depicts a front elevation view of another embodiment of an aiming device. The aiming device further comprises a reflective element, wherein the reflective element furthercomprises vertical extensions and horizontal extensions, and a retraction device, the retraction device further comprising at least one hinge and at least one spring.

[0021] Figure 4 depicts a front elevation view of another embodiment of an aiming device. The aiming device further comprises a reflective element, wherein the reflective element further comprises padding disposed around a lower portion and side portions of the reflective element, and a reflective element mounting mechanism, the reflective element mounting mechanism further comprising at least one through-opening, at least one fastener, and at least one threaded member for affixing and positioning the reflective element relative to the backboard.

[0022] Figure 5 depicts a right side elevation view of another embodiment of an aiming device. The aiming device further comprises the reflective element, the backboard, the rim, a net affixed to the rim, the rim mount which fixedly attaches the rim to the backboard, a reflective element mounting mechanism, wherein the reflective element mounting mechanism comprises at least one horizontal member and at least one vertical member, a backboard support, wherein the backboard support comprises at least one horizontal member and at least one vertical member, at least one fastener to affix and position the reflective element relative to the backboard, a locking mechanism to lock the reflective element in a desired location relative to the backboard, and a scale, wherein the scale is disposed proximate the aiming device and contains measurements for adjusting the desired location between the reflective element and the backboard via an adjustment fastener.

[0023] Figure 6 depicts a top down plan view of another embodiment of an aiming device. The aiming device further comprises the reflective element, the backboard, a reflective element mounting mechanism, a backboard support, and at least one fastener to affix and position the reflective element relative to the backboard.

[0024] Figure 7 depicts a right side elevation view of another embodiment of an aiming device. The aiming device further comprises a reflective element that is independent of the backboard. The reflective element is supported by at least one vertical member and at least one horizontal member. The reflective element is connectable to the backboard via an anchoring member. The reflective element also comprises a movable base, wherein the movable base comprises at least one wheel. In this embodiment, a backboard support comprises at least one horizontal member, at least one vertical member, and a movable support.

[0025] Figure 8 depicts a right side elevation view of another embodiment of an aiming device. The aiming device further comprises the reflective element, the backboard, and the rim. The reflective element produces a virtual rim image visible to a player on a basketball court.

[0026] Figure 9 depicts a top down plan view of another embodiment of an aiming device. The aiming device further comprises the reflective element, the backboard, and the rim. The reflective element produces the virtual rim image visible to the player on the basketball court. Figure 9 demonstrates a reflective plane, the virtual rim image, the basketball, an input direction of the basketball, and rebound directions of the basketball. The distance between the reflective element and backboard can be varied based on properties of the basketball, such as, e.g., coefficient of restitution, air pressure, size, materials of construction, and / or geometry of the basketball.

[0027] Figure 10 depicts a flow chart for a method of calibrating an aiming device.

[0028] Figure 11 depicts a flow chart for a method of installing an aiming device.

[0029] Figure 12 depicts a flow chart for a method of affixing an aiming device to a backboard.

[0030] Figure 13 depicts a flow chart for a method of training bank shots on a backboard.

[0031] Figure 14 depicts a flow chart for another embodiment of methods of training bank shots on a backboard.Detailed Description of Selected Embodiments

[0032] As required, detailed embodiments of the present disclosure are provided herein; however, it is to be understood that the disclosed embodiments are merely examples of the present disclosure that may be embodied in various forms. The figures are not necessarily to scale, and some features may be exaggerated to show details of particular elements. Therefore, specific structural and functional details disclosed herein are not to be interpreted as limiting, but merely as a basis for the claims and as a representative basis for teaching one skilled in the art to variously employ the present disclosure.

[0033] Unless defined otherwise, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as is commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this disclosure belongs. In the event that there are a plurality of definitions for a term herein, those in this disclosure prevail unless stated otherwise.

[0034] Wherever the phrase “for example,” “such as,” “including,” and the like are used herein, the phrase “and without limitation” is understood to follow unless explicitly stated otherwise. Similarly “an example,” “exemplary,” and the like are understood to be non-limiting.

[0035] The term “substantially” allows for deviations from the descriptor that do not negatively impact the intended purpose. Descriptive terms are understood to be modified by the term “substantially” even if the word “substantially” is not explicitly recited.

[0036] The term “about,” when used in connection with a numerical value, refers to the actual given value, and to the approximation to such given value that would reasonably be inferred by one of ordinary skill in the art, including approximations due to the experimental and / or measurement conditions for such given value.

[0037] The terms “comprising,” “including,” “having,” “involving” (and similarly “comprises,” “includes,” “has,” and “involves”), and the like are used interchangeably and have the same meaning. Specifically, each of the terms is defined consistent with the common United States Patent Law definition of “comprising” and is therefore interpreted to be an open term meaning “at least the following,” and is also interpreted not to exclude additional features, limitations, aspects, etc. Thus, for example, “a device having components a, b, and c” means that the device includes at least components a, b, and c. Similarly, the phrase “a method involving steps a, b, and c” means that the method includes at least steps a, b, and c.

[0038] Unless the context clearly requires otherwise, throughout the description and the claims, the words “comprise,” “comprising,” and the like are to be construed in an inclusive sense as opposed to an exclusive or exhaustive sense; that is to say, in the sense of “including, but not limited to.”

[0039] Any discussion of the prior art throughout the specification should in no way be considered as an admission that such prior art is widely known or forms part of common, general knowledge in the field.

[0040] It is an object of the present disclosure to overcome or ameliorate at least one of the disadvantages of the prior art, or to provide a useful alternative.

[0041] The present disclosure relates to devices for assisting athletes in games in which a ball is manually directed to a desired location; more particularly, the present disclosure relates to the game of basketball and provides a virtual aiming location to assist athletes in completing bank shots off a basketball backboard.

[0042] In one embodiment, an aiming device comprises a reflective element capable of producing a virtual rim image visible to a player at a point on a basketball court. In an alternate embodiment, the aiming device comprises one or more of the reflective element, a backboard, arim, a reflective element mounting mechanism, a backboard support, or a combination of two or more of the foregoing.

[0043] The reflective element is capable of producing the virtual rim image visible to the player. Stated differently, the reflective element produces a reflection of the rim, i.e., the virtual rim image, at which the player aims and shoots a basketball to complete a bank shot. To the player, the virtual rim image appears behind a surface of the reflective element. The player aims at the virtual rim image in accordance with how the player would aim at the rim, i.e., the rim affixed to the backboard, for a normal, i.e., non-banked shot. When the player shoots the basketball via an input trajectory that would send the basketball through the virtual rim image, then the basketball would first collide with the backboard and be deflected. After the basketball is deflected off the backboard, the basketball would follow a rebound trajectory that passes through the actual rim, resulting in a successful bank shot.

[0044] The point on the basketball court corresponds with any location at which the player can see the virtual rim image reflected by the reflective element and shoot the basketball at the virtual rim image corresponding with the target location on the backboard. The point may be referred to as a shootable point on the basketball court or a location in front of the backboard. There may be points on the basketball court where the player cannot see the virtual rim image produced by the reflective element, and as such, is not capable of aiming at the corresponding target location on the backboard.

[0045] In a certain embodiment, at least one fastener is employed to affix and position the reflective element relative to the backboard. The at least one fastener may comprise a part of a reflective element mounting mechanism. In an alternate embodiment, the reflective element mounting mechanism may comprise a series of mounting connections to secure the reflective element to the backboard, and the series of mounting connections may further comprise at least one through-opening, at least one fastener, and at least one threaded member, wherein the threaded member is inserted through the through-opening, the at least one fastener is threadedly attached to the threaded member, and the at least one mounting connection affixes the reflective element relative to the backboard. Position and orientation of the series of mounting connections may be adjusted empirically or mathematically to install, calibrate, and / or orientate the reflective element relative to the backboard for the purpose of training bank shots.

[0046] In an alternate embodiment, the reflective element mounting mechanism may comprise at least one vertical member, wherein the vertical member is disposed between the backboard and the reflective element, at least one horizontal member, wherein the horizontal member isdisposed between the vertical member and the reflective element, at least one fastener to connect the vertical member to the backboard, at least one fastener to connect the horizontal member to the vertical member, at least one fastener to connect the horizontal member to the reflective element, and at least one adjustable fastener to change a position and an orientation of the reflective element relative to the backboard. Once the position and orientation of the reflective element are achieved, a locking mechanism may be engaged to temporarily and rigidly affix the reflective element in place for the duration of training bank shots.

[0047] In another embodiment, the reflective element mounting mechanism may comprise a quick-connect fastener system. The quick-connect fastener system allows the reflective element to be both attachable and removable from the backboard. This allows the reflective element to be mounted to the backboard when in use and removed when not in use. The quick-connect fastener system may employ any of the above-mentioned or below-mentioned structures for affixing the reflective element to the backboard.

[0048] Further, in an alternate embodiment, the reflective element is independent of the backboard and is connectable to a movable base. The movable base may further comprise at least one wheel, a vertical member, a support for the reflective element, and an anchoring member, wherein the anchoring member is disposed on the reflective element and secures the reflective element to the backboard. The vertical member may comprise a telescoping member that can extend upwards to the backboard or retract away from the backboard. Further, the support for the reflective element may comprise a telescoping member, wherein the support may extend horizontally in a first direction toward the backboard or retract horizontally in a second direction away from the backboard.

[0049] In the above embodiments, the reflective element and the backboard are separated by a distance and oriented in parallel. The distance, in one embodiment, may be equal to a radius of the basketball. It is known that basketballs are not a single, standard size, that is, the player may use a basketball with a small radius, such as a children’s basketball, a basketball with a medium radius, such as a women’s basketball, or a basketball with a large radius, such as a collegiate basketball or a professional basketball. As such, the distance between the reflective element and the backboard is configurable based on the radius of a desired basketball. Furthermore, the distance is also configurable based on a coefficient of restitution, which is a function of elasticity of a desired basketball and the backboard. Additionally, the distance may be altered empirically based on an input from the player via the scale disposed proximate the aiming device whichcontains measurements for adjusting the desired location between the reflective element and the backboard via the adjustment fastener.

[0050] The distance between the reflective element and the backboard is reduced by adjusting the adjustment fastener in a first direction, and the distance between the reflective element and the backboard is increased by adjusting the adjustment fastener in a second, opposite direction. Additionally, the scale may be disposed on the aiming device, wherein the scale comprises a measurement device and an adjustable fastener. In this embodiment, the scale is positioned proximate the distance between the reflective element and the backboard, and the adjustable fastener is manipulated to change the distance between the reflective element and the backboard. Additionally, the adjustable fastener may be used to change a position and an orientation of the reflective element for calibration. Furthermore, the aiming device may also comprise a locking mechanism to secure the reflective element at one or more predetermined offsets from the backboard. Stated differently, the one or more predetermined offsets may comprise a length proportional to a radius of the desired basketball. Further, the one or more predetermined offsets may comprise a length calculated via alternate properties of the basketball such as air pressure, geometry, size, and the like. Further still, the one or more predetermined offsets may comprise a length calculated via alternate properties of the backboard such as rigidity of the backboard support and / or elastic properties of materials of construction of the backboard.

[0051] The aiming device, in certain embodiments, also comprises the backboard. The backboard may embody a substantially rectangular profile and may further comprise a front surface, a rear surface, a lower portion opposite an upper portion, a thickness created between the front surface and the rear surface, and an outer surface. The front surface is a location at which the player shoots the basketball to cause the basketball to contact the backboard. The rear surface is a location at which the backboard is affixed to a backboard support. The lower portion, which is opposite the upper portion, is a location at which the rim and the reflective element may be affixed. Additionally, the outer surface of the backboard may alternatively be referred to as a perimeter of the backboard. The backboard may also comprise a substantially rectangular target area disposed on the front surface of the backboard.

[0052] The aiming device, in certain embodiments, also comprises a backboard support. In one embodiment, the backboard support comprises a vertical backboard member affixed to a point on the basketball court and extends upward in a vertical direction perpendicular to the basketball court, and a horizontal backboard member, wherein a first end of the horizontal backboardmember connects to the vertical backboard member and a second end of the horizontal backboard member connects to the backboard.

[0053] In another embodiment, the backboard support comprises at least one horizontal backboard member, wherein a first end of the horizontal backboard member connects to a wall, and a second end of the horizontal backboard member connects to the backboard.

[0054] In a further embodiment, the backboard support comprises at least one vertical backboard member, at least one horizontal backboard member, wherein the at least one horizontal backboard member and the at least one vertical backboard member are configured to connect the backboard to a movable backboard support. The movable backboard support may embody a support similar to that of the movable base of the reflective element. The movable backboard support allows the player to position the backboard on the basketball court and remove the backboard, and its support, when not in use. Further, the movable backboard support allows the player to raise and lower the backboard via a handle.

[0055] The aiming device, in certain embodiments, also comprises the rim. The rim is a location at which the basketball may enter to complete a successful basketball shot. The rim may embody a substantially circular member disposed a height above the lower portion of the backboard such that the rim is parallel to a plane of the basketball court and extends perpendicular to the front surface of the backboard. The rim may further comprise a net disposed about a circumference of the rim such that the net extends below the rim and the lower portion of the backboard. In an alternate embodiment, the rim may comprise a small inside and a small outside diameter to accommodate the children’s basketball. Additionally, the rim may comprise a medium inside and a medium outside diameter to accommodate an alternate basketball. Lastly, the rim may comprise a large inside and a large outside diameter to accommodate the collegiate or professional basketballs. In the above embodiments, the rim may comprise a thickness that corresponds with the size of the desired basketball.

[0056] Turning back to the reflective element, in a certain embodiment, the reflective element resides below the rim at a spot above the lower portion of the backboard. In an alternate embodiment, the reflective element is connectable to a slidable member capable of lowering the reflective element below the lower portion of the backboard.

[0057] Turning to materials of construction, the reflective element may be constructed from tempered glass, vinyl, mylar, plastic, aluminum, or any combination of the set of materials. Other suitable materials also may be used, alone or in any combination. The backboard may be constructed from wood, tempered glass, steel, fiberglass, aluminum, acrylic, or any combinationof the set of materials. Other suitable materials also may be used, alone or in any combination. Furthermore, the backboard may also comprise of a transparent, translucent, or opaque material, or a combination of two or more thereof. In one embodiment, the reflective element and the backboard embody flat, planar rectangles. In another embodiment, the reflective element may be curved, convex, or concave relative to the backboard.

[0058] In a certain embodiment, the reflective element further comprises padding disposed about a lower and side portions of the reflective element to protect the player from injury upon contact with the reflective element. In another embodiment, the reflective element comprises padding disposed about the lower, side, and an upper portion of the reflective element to protect the player from injury upon contact with the reflective element. In another embodiment, padding may be disposed only about the lower portion of the reflective element.

[0059] In certain embodiments, the reflective element may further comprise a deflection device. The deflection device may comprise of at least one hinge disposed between the reflective element and the backboard, and at least one spring disposed proximate the hinge, wherein the deflection device allows the reflective element to deflect to a predetermined angle when contacted by the player or the basketball and return to its original position after the contact concludes.

[0060] In an alternate embodiment, the reflective element may comprise an upper portion, a lower portion, and a flexible member, wherein the flexible member is disposed between the upper portion and lower portion of the reflective element and allows the upper and lower portions to move independently of each other and the backboard.

[0061] In a further embodiment, the reflective element may comprise horizontal extensions and vertical extensions, wherein the horizontal and vertical extensions expand a plane of reflection visible to the player. In one embodiment, the upper and lower portions of the reflective element may be of similar size and shape. In an alternate embodiment, the upper and lower portions of the reflective element may be variable in shape and size.

[0062] In another embodiment, the reflective element may further comprise a retraction system. The retraction system, which may be similar to or in accordance with the deflection device, comprises at least one hinge disposed between the reflective element and the backboard, and at least one spring disposed proximate the hinge, wherein the retraction system permits independent deflection of the upper and lower portions of the reflective element to predetermined angles when contacted by the player or the basketball and returns to original positions after the contact concludes. Additionally, the retraction system may be employed to move the reflective elementaway from the backboard when not in use. In certain embodiments, the retraction system and the deflection device may be implemented as a single component. In other embodiments, the retraction system and the deflection device may be embodied as separate, independent components.

[0063] The following steps may be used to calibrate the aiming device.- Obtain a backboard and a rim;- Obtain a reflective element;- Connect the reflective element to a reflective element mounting mechanism;- Connect the reflective element mounting mechanism to the backboard;- Position the reflective element parallel to and at a distance from the backboard; and- Adjust the distance between the reflective element and the backboard to a spacing proportional to a radius of a desired basketball.

[0064] The following steps may be used to install the aiming device.- Obtain a backboard and a rim;- Optionally affix the rim to the backboard;- Optionally install the rim and the backboard on a basketball court;- Obtain a reflective element;- Attach a reflective element mounting mechanism to the reflective element and the backboard;- Attach a first end of at least one vertical member to the backboard;- Attach a second end of the at least one vertical member to a first end of a horizontal member;- Attach a second end of the at least one horizontal member to the reflective element;- Position the reflective element parallel to and at a distance from the backboard; and- Adjust the distance between the reflective element and the backboard to a spacing proportional to a radius of a desired basketball.

[0065] The following steps may be used to affix the aiming device to the backboard.- Obtain the backboard and a rim;- Optionally affix the rim to the backboard;- Optionally install the rim and the backboard on a basketball court;- Obtain a reflective element;- Attach a first end of at least one vertical member to the backboard;- Attach a second end of the at least one vertical member to a first end of a horizontal member;- Attach a second end of the at least one horizontal member to a reflective element; and- Adjust a distance between the backboard and the reflective element to a spacing

[0066] The following steps may be used to train bank shots on the backboard.- Obtain the backboard and a rim;- Optionally affix the rim to the backboard;- Optionally install the rim and the backboard on a basketball court;- Affix a reflective element to the backboard;- Identify a virtual rim image in the reflective element;- Aim at the virtual rim image corresponding to a target location on the backboard; and proportional to a radius of a desired basketball.- Shoot a basketball at the virtual rim image such that the basketball contacts the target location and enters the rim to complete the bank shot.

[0067] In an alternate embodiment, the following steps may be used to train bank shots on the backboard.- Obtain the backboard and a rim;- Optionally affix the rim to the backboard;- Optionally install the rim and the backboard on a basketball court;- Obtain a reflective element;- Attach a reflective element mounting mechanism to the reflective element and the backboard;- Attach a first end of at least one vertical member to the backboard;- Attach a second end of the at least one vertical member to a first end of a horizontal member;- Attach a second end of the at least one horizontal member to the reflective element;- Position the reflective element parallel to and at a distance from the backboard;- Adjust the distance between the reflective element and the backboard to a spacing proportional to a radius of a desired basketball;- Identify a virtual rim image in the reflective element;- Aim at the virtual rim image corresponding to a target location on the backboard; and- Shoot the basketball at the virtual rim image such that the basketball contacts the target location and enters the rim to complete the bank shot.

[0068] Turning to the figures, Figure 1 depicts one embodiment of the present disclosure comprising an aiming device 100. The aiming device 100 further comprises a reflective element 105, a backboard 110, a rim 120, and at least one fastener 130 to affix the reflective element 105 to the backboard 110. The backboard 110 further comprises an outer surface 113 (or a perimeter), a lower portion 115, a front surface 118, and a rear surface (shown at 119 of Figure 8). The backboard 110 also has a thickness (not shown) and embodies a substantially planar, rectangular body. The rim 120 is affixed to the front surface 118 of the backboard 110 via a rim mount 125. The backboard 110 further comprises a target area 140 disposed on the front surface 118. The target area 140 may be integral to the backboard 110 or may be affixed via adhesive, paint, marker, or other suitable structures for producing the target area 140. The at least one fastener 130 affixes the reflective element 105 to the lower portion 115 of the backboard 110. In certain embodiments, the reflective element 105 may be affixed to the backboard 110 below the lower portion 115 of the backboard 110 via the at least one fastener 130. Further, the reflective element 105 may embody a planar, curved, which may include both concave or convex, or flat shape relative to the backboard 110. In the present embodiment, padding 170 is disposed about a lower portion of the reflective element 105 to protect a player from injury upon contact with the reflective element 105. Padding 170 may be constructed of any suitable material to protect the player from injury such as, e.g., closed-cell foam, and may be removably attachable to the reflective element 105 or integral to the reflective element 105. In an alternate embodiment, padding (shown at 470 in Figure 4) may be disposed about the lower and side portions of the reflective element 105 to protect the player from injury upon contact with the reflective element 105.

[0069] Figure 2 depicts another embodiment of an aiming device 200. The aiming device 200 further comprises a reflective element 205, wherein the reflective element 205 further comprises an upper portion 206, a lower portion 207, a flexible member 208 disposed between the upper portion 206 and the lower portion 207, and a deflection device 209. The deflection device 209 further comprises at least one hinge and at least one spring (not shown).

[0070] In Figure 2, the reflective element 205 is affixed to the lower portion 115 of the backboard 110 via at least one fastener 130. The deflection device 209 connects the upper 206 and lower 207 portions of the reflective element 205. The upper 206 and lower 207 portions of the reflective element 205 are separated by the flexible member 208. In the event that the player contacts the lower portion 207 of the reflective element 205, the at least one spring and at least one hinge of the deflection device 209 permits the lower portion 207 of the reflective element 205 to move independently of the upper portion 206 of the reflective element 205. When thecontact by the player concludes, the at least one spring and at least one hinge return the lower portion 207 of the reflective element 205 to its original orientation and position. The flexible member 208 disposed between the upper 206 and lower 207 portions further permits independent movement of the portions 206, 207 and may span a total length of the portions 206, 207 or may span a length shorter than the total length of the portions 206, 207. In one embodiment, the upper 206 and lower 207 portions of the reflective element 205 may be of a same size, i.e., length, width, and thickness. In an alternate embodiment, the upper portion 206 may be larger than the lower portion 207. Further, in another embodiment, the lower portion 207 may be larger than the upper portion 206.

[0071] Figure 3 depicts another embodiment of an aiming device 300. The aiming device 300 further comprises a reflective element 305, wherein the reflective element 305 further comprises horizontal extensions 380, vertical extensions 390, and a retraction device 309. The retraction device 309 further comprises at least one hinge and at least one spring (not shown). The horizontal 380 and vertical 390 extensions of the reflective element 305 increase a plane of reflection produced by the reflective element 305 visible to the player. This allows the player to shoot the basketball from different and further away positions on a basketball court. Stated differently, the present embodiment 300 allows the player to shoot the basketball at acute angles relative to the front surface 118 of the backboard 110, including off to a side of the backboard 110 via the horizontal extensions 380 and from below the rim 120 of the backboard 110 via the vertical extensions 390. The retraction device 309 may be in accordance with the deflection device 209. In an alternate embodiment, the retraction device 309 may be disposed at the lower portion 115 of the backboard 110 and comprise at least one fastener, such as fastener 130, at least one hinge, and at least one spring. The retraction device 309 permits rotation of the reflective element 305 from a nearly vertical orientation to a nearly horizontal orientation relative to the basketball court. Advantageously, the near horizontal orientation allows the reflective element 305 to be moved when not in use by the player and returned to its vertical orientation when in use by the player for training bank shots.

[0072] Figure 4 depicts another embodiment of an aiming device 400. The aiming device 400 further comprises a reflective element 405, wherein the reflective element 405 further comprises padding 470 disposed around the lower portion and side portions of the reflective element 405, and a reflective element mounting mechanism 430. The reflective element mounting mechanism 430 further comprises at least one through-opening 431, at least one fastener 432, and at least one threaded member 433 for affixing and positioning the reflective element 405 relative to the backboard 110. In this embodiment, the reflective element mounting mechanism 430 affixes thereflective element 405 to the lower portion 115 of the backboard 110. An advantage of reflective element mounting mechanism 430 is that the at least one through-opening 431, at least one fastener 432, and at least one threaded member 433 permit the player to mount, calibrate, and orient the reflective element 405 relative to the backboard 110.

[0073] Figure 5 depicts a right side elevation view of another embodiment of an aiming device 500. The aiming device 500 further comprises the reflective element 105, the backboard 110, the rim 120, a net 526 affixed to the rim 120, the rim mount 125 which fixedly attaches the rim 120 to the backboard 110, a reflective element mounting mechanism 530, a backboard support 550, a locking mechanism 564, and a scale 560. The reflective element mounting mechanism 530 further comprises at least one horizontal member 532 and at least one vertical member 531. The backboard support 550 further comprises at least one horizontal member 552 and at least one vertical member 551. The aiming device 500 further comprises at least one fastener 553 to affix and position the backboard 110 to a ceiling 570, a locking mechanism 564 to lock the reflective element 105 in a desired location relative to the backboard 110, and a scale 560, wherein the scale 560 is disposed proximate the aiming device 500 and contains measurements for adjusting the desired location between the reflective element 105 and the backboard 110.

[0074] The reflective element 105 produces the virtual rim image 520 visible to the player. The virtual rim image 520 visible to the player corresponds to a ball impact location on the backboard 105. Shooting a basketball at the virtual rim image 520 results in the basketball contacting the ball impact location and entering the rim 120 to complete a bank shot. The reflective element mounting mechanism 530 attaches the reflective element 105 to the rear surface 119 of the backboard 110.

[0075] The reflective element mounting mechanism 530 further comprises at least one fastener 533 to affix and position the reflective element 105 in the desired location relative to the backboard 110. A slidable member 534” is disposed on the at least one horizontal member 532. The slidable member 534” permits motion of the reflective element mounting mechanism 530 in a horizontal orientation relative to the basketball court for calibration, alignment, and orientation of the reflective element 105. A slidable member 534’ is disposed on the at least one vertical member 531. The slidable member 534’ permits motion of the reflective element mounting mechanism 530 in a vertical orientation relative to the basketball court for calibration, alignment, and orientation of the reflective element 105. The at least one fastener 533 affixes the reflective element mounting mechanism 530 to the reflective element 105 and the backboard 110. Once a desired position and orientation of the reflective element 105 is achieved, which may bedetermined either empirically or mathematically, the reflective element 105 may be locked into place via the locking mechanism 564. Furthermore, the scale 560 disposed proximate the aiming device 500 contains reference measurements for small adjustments via an adjustment fastener 562 to select the desired location between the reflective element 105 and the backboard 110.

[0076] Turning to the backboard support 550, the backboard support 550 comprises at least one horizontal member 552, at least one vertical member 551, and at least one fastener 553 to affix and position the backboard 110 to a ceiling 570.

[0077] Figure 6 depicts top down plan view of another embodiment of the aiming device 100, 200, 300, 400, and 500. The aiming device 100, 200, 300, 400, and 500 further comprises the reflective element 105, the backboard 110, a reflective element mounting mechanism 630, a backboard support 650, and at least one fastener 633 to affix and position the reflective element 105 relative to the backboard 110. The reflective element mounting mechanism 630 further comprises a first member 631 and a second member 632 which are connectable to the reflective element 105 and the backboard support 650 via at least one fastener 633. Further, the backboard support 650 comprises a first member 651 and a second member 652 which are connectable to the backboard 110 and a wall 670 via at least one fastener 653.

[0078] Figure 7 depicts another embodiment of an aiming device 700. The aiming device 700 further comprises a reflective element 705 that is independent of the backboard 110. The reflective element 705 is supported by at least one vertical member 731 and at least one horizontal member 732. Of interest, the at least one vertical member 731 can telescope up and down relative to a basketball court 724 to accommodate variable heights and sizes of the backboard 110. Further, the at least one horizontal member 732 is connectable to the reflective element 705 via at least one fastener 733. The reflective element 705 is connectable to the backboard 110 via an optional anchoring member 730. The reflective element 705 also comprises a movable base 735, wherein the movable base 735 comprises at least one wheel 736.

[0079] In this embodiment, a backboard support 750 comprises at least one horizontal member 752, at least one vertical member 751, and a movable support 754. Further, the backboard support 750 is capable of raising and lowering the backboard 110 via a handle 755. Additionally, the backboard support 750 is connectable to the backboard 110 via at least one fastener 753. In this embodiment, a player 722 is shown shooting a basketball 721 at the aiming device 700 from a shootable point 723 on the basketball court 724.

[0080] Figure 8 depicts another embodiment of the aiming device 100, 200, 300, 400, 500, and 700. The aiming device 100, 200, 300, 400, 500, and 700 further comprises the reflectiveelement 105, the backboard 110, and the rim 120. The reflective element 105 produces the virtual rim image 520 (not shown) visible to players 722’, 722” on the basketball court 724. In this embodiment, player 722’ is positioned at a first location on the basketball court 724, and player 722” is positioned at a second location on the basketball court 724, wherein the first location and the second location are different locations on the basketball court 724. Player 722’ establishes a first line of sight 822’ that intersects the reflective element 105, and player 722” establishes a second line of sight 822” that intersects the reflective element 105. Both the first and second lines of sight 822’, 822” converge on an aim point 820 corresponding to the virtual rim image 520 reflected by the reflective element 105. Further, a radius 821 of the basketball 721 is shown. In this embodiment, a backboard support 850 comprises at least one horizontal member 852 and at one vertical member 851.

[0081] Figure 9 depicts a top down plan view of another embodiment of the aiming device 100, 200, 300, 400, 500, and 700. The aiming device 100, 200, 300, 400, 500, and 700 further comprises the reflective element 105, the backboard 110, and the rim 120. The reflective element 105 produces the virtual rim image 520 visible to the player 722 on the basketball court 724. Figure 9 demonstrates a reflective plane 905, the virtual rim image 520, the basketball 721, an input direction (referred to in the alternative as an input trajectory) 921 of the basketball, and rebound directions of the basketball (referred to in the alternative as rebound trajectories) 921 A, 921B, and 921C. The reflective element 905, which may be in accordance with reflective element 105, 205, 305, 405, is positioned at the distance from the backboard 110. Here, the basketball 721 is shown at a distance from the backboard 110 traveling on the input direction 921. When the basketball 721 contacts the backboard 110, the basketball 721 rebounds via rebound direction 921A, 921B, 921C. The rebound direction 921A, 921B, 921C may be calculated via a coefficient of restitution of the basketball 721 or empirically via the player 722. If perfectly elastic basketballs are assumed, the distance between the reflective element 105 and the backboard 110 may be equal to the radius 821 of the basketball 721. If the elastic coefficient, i.e., coefficient of restitution, of the basketball 721 is known or estimated, the reflective element 105 can be adjusted either closer or further from the backboard 110 accordingly.

[0082] Figure 10 depicts method 1000 of calibrating an aiming device. The method 1000 first comprises obtaining a backboard and a rim. This is shown in Box 1010. The backboard may be in accordance with the backboard 110 discussed above, and the rim may be in accordance with the rim 120 discussed above.

[0083] The method 1000 next includes obtaining a reflective element. This is shown in Box 1015. The reflective element may be in accordance with reflective elements 105, 205, 305, 405, and 705 discussed above.

[0084] The method 1000 next includes connecting the reflective element to a reflective element mounting mechanism. This is shown in Box 1020. The reflective element mounting mechanism may be in accordance with reflective element mounting mechanisms 430, 530, and 630 discussed above.

[0085] The method 1000 further includes connecting the reflective element mounting mechanism to the backboard. This is shown in Box 1025.

[0086] The method 1000 next includes positioning the reflective element parallel to and at a distance from the backboard. This is shown in Box 1030.

[0087] The method 1000 lastly includes adjusting the distance between the reflective element and the backboard to a spacing proportional to a radius of a desired basketball. This is shown in Box 1035.

[0088] Figure 11 depicts a method 1100 of installing an aiming device. The method 1100 first comprises obtaining a backboard and a rim. This is shown in Box 1110.

[0089] The method 1100 next comprises optionally affixing the rim to the backboard. This is shown in Box 1115.

[0090] The method 1100 next comprises optionally installing the rim and the backboard on a basketball court. This is shown in Box 1120.

[0091] The method 1100 further comprises obtaining a reflective element. This is shown in Box 1125.

[0092] The method 1100 next comprises attaching a reflective element mounting mechanism to the reflective element and the backboard. This is shown in Box 1130. This step may further include attaching a first end of at least one vertical member to the backboard, attaching a second end of the at least one vertical member to a first end of a horizontal member, and attaching a second end of the at least one horizontal member to the reflective element.

[0093] The method 1100 next includes positioning the reflective element parallel to and at a distance from the backboard. This is shown in Box 1135.

[0094] The method 1100 lastly includes adjusting the distance between the reflective element and the backboard to a spacing proportional to a radius of a desired basketball. This is shown in Box 1140.

[0095] Figure 12 depicts a method 1200 of affixing an aiming device to a backboard. The method 1200 first comprises obtaining a backboard and a rim. This is shown in Box 1210.

[0096] The method 1200 next comprises optionally affixing the rim to the backboard. This is shown in Box 1215.

[0097] The method 1200 next includes optionally installing the rim and the backboard on a basketball court. This is shown in Box 1220.

[0098] The method 1200 next includes obtaining a reflective element. This is shown in Box 1225.

[0099] The method 1200 next includes attaching a first end of at least one vertical member to the backboard. This is shown in Box 1230.

[0100] The method 1200 next includes attaching a second end of the at least one vertical member to a first end of a horizontal member. This is shown in Box 1235.

[0101] The method 1200 next includes attaching a second end of the at least one horizontal member to the reflective element. This is shown in Box 1240.

[0102] The method 1200 lastly includes adjusting a distance between the backboard and the reflective element to a spacing proportional to a radius of a desired basketball. This is shown in Box 1245.

[0103] Figure 13 depicts a method 1300 of training bank shots on a backboard. The method 1300 first comprises obtaining a backboard and a rim. This is shown in Box 1310.

[0104] The method 1300 next comprises optionally affixing the rim to the backboard. This is shown in Box 1315.

[0105] The method 1300 next comprises optionally installing the rim and the backboard on a basketball court. This is shown in Box 1320.

[0106] The method 1300 next includes affixing a reflective element to the backboard. This is shown in Box 1325.

[0107] The method 1300 next includes identifying a virtual image of a rim in the reflective element. This is shown in Box 1330. The virtual image of the rim may be referred to in the alternative as a virtual rim image.

[0108] The method 1300 next includes aiming at the virtual image of the rim corresponding to a target location on the backboard. This is shown in Box 1335.

[0109] The method 1300 lastly includes shooting a basketball at the virtual rim image such that the basketball contacts the target location and enters the rim to complete the bank shot. This is shown in Box 1340.

[0110] Figure 14 depicts another embodiment of a method 1400 of training bank shots on a backboard. The method 1400 first comprises obtaining a backboard and a rim. This is shown in Box 1410.

[0111] The method 1400 next includes optionally affixing the rim to the backboard. This is shown in Box 1415.

[0112] The method 1400 next includes optionally installing the rim and the backboard on a basketball court. This is shown in Box 1420.

[0113] The method 1400 next includes obtaining a reflective element. This is shown in Box 1425.

[0114] The method 1400 next includes attaching a reflective element mounting mechanism to the reflective element and the backboard. This is shown in Box 1430. This step may further include attaching a first end of at least one vertical member to the backboard, attaching a second end of the at least one vertical member to a first end of a horizontal member, and attaching a second end of the at least one horizontal member to the reflective element.

[0115] The method 1400 next includes positioning the reflective element parallel to and at a distance from the backboard. This is shown in Box 1435.

[0116] The method 1400 next includes adjusting the distance between the reflective element and the backboard to a spacing proportional to a radius of a desired basketball. This is shown in Box 1440.

[0117] The method 1400 next includes identifying a virtual image of the rim in the reflective element. This is shown in Box 1445. The virtual image of the rim may be referred to in the alternative as a virtual rim image.

[0118] The method 1400 next includes aiming at the virtual image of the rim corresponding to a target location on the backboard. This is shown in Box 1450.

[0119] The method 1400 lastly includes shooting the basketball at the virtual rim image such that the basketball contacts the target location and enters the rim to complete the bank shot. This is shown in Box 1455.Description of Embodiments

[0120] Embodiment 1: An aiming device comprising a reflective element capable of producing a virtual rim image visible to a player at any shootable point on a basketball court, and at least one fastener to affix and position the reflective element relative to a backboard.

[0121] Embodiment 2: An aiming device comprising a reflective element capable of producing a virtual rim image visible to a player at any shootable point on a basketball court, a backboard, a rim affixed to the backboard, and at least one fastener to affix and position the reflective element relative to the backboard.

[0122] Embodiment 3: An aiming device comprising a reflective element capable of producing a virtual rim image visible to a player positioned in front of the reflective element, and at least one fastener to affix and position the reflective element relative to a backboard.

[0123] Embodiment 4: An aiming device comprising a reflective element capable of producing a virtual rim image visible to a player, a backboard, a rim affixed to the backboard, and at least one fastener to affix and position the reflective element relative to the backboard.

[0124] Embodiment 5: An aiming device comprising a reflective element and a backboard, wherein the reflective element and the backboard are oriented in parallel and separated by a distance.

[0125] Embodiment 6: The aiming device of any one of Embodiments 1-5, wherein the distance between the reflective element and the backboard is proportional to a radius of a basketball.

[0126] Embodiment 7: The aiming device of any one of Embodiments 1-6, wherein the distance between the reflective element and the backboard is reduced by adjusting the at least one fastener in a first direction.

[0127] Embodiment 8: The aiming device of any one of Embodiments 1-7, wherein the distance between the reflective element and the backboard is increased by adjusting the at least one fastener in a second direction.

[0128] Embodiment 9: The aiming device of any one of Embodiments 1-8, wherein the aiming device further comprises a scale disposed on the aiming device, the scale comprising a measurement device, and an adjustable fastener.

[0129] Embodiment 10: The aiming device of any one of Embodiments 1-9, wherein the scale is positioned proximate the distance between the reflective element and the backboard, and the adjustable fastener is manipulated to change the distance between the reflective element and the backboard.

[0130] Embodiment 11: The aiming device of any one of Embodiments 1-10, comprising a locking mechanism to secure the reflective element at one or more predetermined offsets from the backboard.

[0131] Embodiment 12: The aiming device of any one of Embodiments 1-11, wherein the one or more predetermined offsets comprises a length proportional to a radius of a desired basketball.

[0132] Embodiment 13: The aiming device of any one of Embodiments 1-12, wherein the backboard embodies a substantially rectangular profile and wherein the backboard further comprises a front surface, a rear surface, wherein the backboard is affixed to a backboard support, a lower portion opposite an upper portion, wherein the rim and the reflective element are affixed to the lower portion, a thickness created between the front surface and the rear surface, and an outer surface, wherein the outer surface is a perimeter of the backboard.

[0133] Embodiment 14: The aiming device of any one of Embodiments 1-13, wherein the backboard support comprises a vertical backboard member affixed to a region on the basketball court and extends upward in a vertical direction perpendicular to the basketball court, and a horizontal backboard member, wherein a first end of the horizontal backboard member connects to the vertical backboard member and a second end of the horizontal backboard member connects to the backboard.

[0134] Embodiment 15: The aiming device of any one of Embodiments 1-14, wherein the backboard support comprises at least one horizontal backboard member, wherein a first end of the horizontal backboard member connects to a wall, and a second end of the horizontal backboard member connects to the backboard.

[0135] Embodiment 16: The aiming device of any one of Embodiments 1-15, wherein the backboard support comprises at least one vertical backboard member, at least one horizontal backboard member, wherein the at least one horizontal backboard member and the at least onevertical backboard member are configured to connect the backboard to a movable backboard support.

[0136] Embodiment 17: The aiming device of any one of Embodiments 1-16, wherein the at least one fastener is adjustable to change a position and an orientation of the reflective element for calibration.

[0137] Embodiment 18: The aiming device of any one of Embodiments 1-17, wherein the reflective element comprises a quick-connect fastener system.

[0138] Embodiment 19: The aiming device of any one of Embodiments 1-18, wherein a reflective element mounting mechanism comprises a series of mounting connections to secure the reflective element to the backboard, and the series of mounting connections further comprise at least one through-opening, at least one fastener, and at least one threaded member, wherein the threaded member is inserted through the through-opening, the at least one fastener is threadedly attached to the threaded member, and the at least one mounting connection affixes the reflective element relative to the backboard.

[0139] Embodiment 20: The aiming device of any one of Embodiments 1-19, wherein the reflective element mounting mechanism comprises at least one vertical member, wherein the vertical member is disposed between the backboard and the reflective element, at least one horizontal member, wherein the horizontal member is disposed between the vertical member and the reflective element, at least one fastener to connect the vertical member to the backboard, at least one fastener to connect the horizontal member to the vertical member, at least one fastener to connect the horizontal member to the reflective element, and at least one adjustable fastener to change a position and an orientation of the reflective element relative to the backboard.

[0140] Embodiment 21: The aiming device of any one of Embodiments 1-20, wherein the reflective element is independent of the backboard, and wherein the reflective element is connectable to a movable base.

[0141] Embodiment 22: The aiming device of any one of Embodiments 1-21, wherein the movable base further comprises at least one wheel, a vertical member, a support for the reflective element, and an anchoring member, wherein the anchoring member is disposed on the reflective element and secures the reflective element to the backboard at a distance proportional to a radius of a basketball.

[0142] Embodiment 23: The aiming device of any one of Embodiments 1-22, wherein the rim further embodies a substantially circular member disposed a height above the lower portion ofthe backboard such that the rim is parallel to a plane of the basketball court and extends perpendicular to the front surface of the backboard.

[0143] Embodiment 24: The aiming device of any one of Embodiments 1-23, wherein the rim further comprises a net disposed about a circumference of the rim such that the net extends below the rim and the lower portion of the backboard.

[0144] Embodiment 25: The aiming device of any one of Embodiments 1-24, wherein the rim comprises a small inside and outside diameter, a medium inside and outside diameter, or a large inside and outside diameter, and a variable thickness.

[0145] Embodiment 26: The aiming device of any one of Embodiments 1-25, wherein the reflective element is configured to reside below the rim at a spot above the lower portion of the backboard.

[0146] Embodiment 27: The aiming device of any one of Embodiments 1-26, wherein the reflective element is connected to a slidable member capable of lowering the reflective element below the lower portion of the backboard.

[0147] Embodiment 28: The aiming device of any one of Embodiments 1-27, wherein the backboard is constructed from a set of materials, the set of materials comprising wood, tempered glass, steel, fiberglass, aluminum, acrylic, or any combination of the set of materials, and the backboard further comprises of a transparent, translucent, or opaque material.

[0148] Embodiment 29: The aiming device of any one of Embodiments 1-28, wherein the backboard is transparent, translucent, or opaque, or a combination of two or more thereof.

[0149] Embodiment 30: The aiming device of any one of Embodiments 1-29, wherein the aiming device comprises one or more of the reflective element, backboard, rim, reflective element mounting mechanism, or a combination of two or more of the foregoing.

[0150] Embodiment 31 : The aiming device of any one of Embodiments 1-30, wherein the reflective element is constructed from a set of materials, the set of materials comprising tempered glass, vinyl, mylar, plastic, aluminum, or any combination of the set of materials, and the reflective element further comprises at least one through-opening which at least one fastener is inserted to secure the reflective element relative to the backboard.

[0151] Embodiment 32: The aiming device of any one of Embodiments 1-31, wherein the reflective element further comprises padding disposed about a lower and side portions of the reflective element to protect the player from injury upon contact with the reflective element.

[0152] Embodiment 33: The aiming device of any one of Embodiments 1-32, wherein the reflective element further comprises padding disposed about the lower, side, and an upper portion of the reflective element to protect the player from injury upon contact with the reflective element.

[0153] Embodiment 34: The aiming device of any one of Embodiments 1-33, wherein the reflective element further comprises a retraction system, the retraction system further comprising a hinge disposed between the reflective element and the backboard, and a spring disposed proximate the hinge, wherein the retraction system allows the reflective element to deflect to a predetermined angle when contacted by the player or the basketball and return to its original position after the contact concludes.

[0154] Embodiment 35: The aiming device of any one of Embodiments 1-34, wherein the reflective element comprises an upper portion, a lower portion, and a flexible member, wherein the flexible member is disposed between the upper portion and lower portion of the reflective element and allows the upper and lower portions to move independently.

[0155] Embodiment 36: The aiming device of any one of Embodiments 1-35, wherein the reflective element further comprises a retraction system, the retraction system further comprising a hinge disposed between the reflective element and the backboard, and a spring disposed proximate the hinge, wherein the retraction system permits independent deflection of the upper and lower portions to predetermined angles when contacted by the player or the basketball and returns to original positions after the contact concludes.

[0156] Embodiment 37: The aiming device of any one of Embodiments 1-36, wherein the reflective element further comprises a retraction system that permits the reflective element to deflect toward the backboard when contacted by the player or basketball and return to an original position after the contact concludes.

[0157] Embodiment 38: The aiming device of any one of Embodiments 1-37, wherein the reflective element further comprises horizontal extensions, and vertical extensions, wherein the horizontal extension and vertical extensions expand a plane of reflection visible to the player.

[0158] Embodiment 39: The aiming device of any one of Embodiments 1-38, wherein the backboard comprises a substantially rectangular target area disposed on the front surface of the backboard.

[0159] Embodiment 40: A method of calibrating an aiming device comprising obtaining a backboard and a rim, obtaining a reflective element, connecting the reflective element to areflective element mounting mechanism, connecting the reflective element mounting mechanism to the backboard, positioning the reflective element parallel to and at a distance from the backboard, and adjusting the distance between the reflective element and the backboard to a spacing proportional to a radius of a desired basketball.

[0160] Embodiment 41: A method of installing an aiming device comprising obtaining a backboard and a rim, optionally affixing the rim to the backboard, optionally installing the rim and the backboard on a basketball court, obtaining a reflective element, attaching a reflective element mounting mechanism to the reflective element and the backboard, the method further comprising attaching a first end of at least one vertical member to the backboard, attaching a second end of the at least one vertical member to a first end of a horizontal member, and attaching a second end of the at least one horizontal member to the reflective element, positioning the reflective element parallel to and at a distance from the backboard, and adjusting the distance between the reflective element and the backboard to a spacing proportional to a radius of a desired basketball.

[0161] Embodiment 42: A method of affixing an aiming device to a backboard comprising obtaining the backboard and a rim, optionally affixing the rim to the backboard, optionally installing the rim and the backboard on a basketball court, obtaining a reflective element, attaching a first end of at least one vertical member to the backboard, attaching a second end of the at least one vertical member to a first end of a horizontal member, attaching a second end of the at least one horizontal member to a reflective element, and adjusting a distance between the backboard and the reflective element to a spacing proportional to a radius of a desired basketball.

[0162] Embodiment 43: A method of training bank shots on a backboard comprising obtaining the backboard and a rim, optionally affixing the rim to the backboard, optionally installing the rim and the backboard on a basketball court, affixing a reflective element to the backboard, identifying a virtual rim image in the reflective element, aiming at the virtual rim image corresponding to a target location on the backboard, and shooting a basketball at the virtual rim image such that the basketball contacts the target location and enters the rim to complete the bank shot.

[0163] Embodiment 44: A method of training bank shots on a backboard comprising obtaining the backboard and a rim, optionally affixing the rim to the backboard, optionally installing the rim and the backboard on a basketball court, obtaining a reflective element, attaching a reflective element mounting mechanism to the reflective element and the backboard, the method further comprising attaching a first end of at least one vertical member to the backboard, attaching asecond end of the at least one vertical member to a first end of a horizontal member, and attaching a second end of the at least one horizontal member to the reflective element, positioning the reflective element parallel to and at a distance from the backboard, adjusting the distance between the reflective element and the backboard to a spacing proportional to a radius of a desired basketball, identifying a virtual rim image in the reflective element, aiming at the virtual rim image corresponding to a target location on the backboard, and shooting the basketball at the virtual rim image such that the basketball contacts the target location and enters the rim to complete the bank shot.

[0164] Embodiment 45: The method of any one of Embodiments 40-44, employing the aiming device of any one of Embodiments 1-39.

[0165] Embodiment 46: The aiming device of any one of the preceding Embodiments, wherein the reflective element comprises a first portion and a second portion, wherein the first and second portions of the reflective element are separated by a vertical seam, the vertical seam optionally extending though a middle of the reflective element. The aiming device further comprising at least one fastener for each of the first portion and the second portion, at least one calibration device for each of the first portion and the second portion, and a connector to join the first and second portions to create a single structure, wherein the vertical seam, the one or more fasteners, and the one or more calibration devices permit the first and second portions of the reflective element to move and operate independently of each other.

[0166] Embodiment 47: The aiming device of any one of the preceding Embodiments, wherein the reflective element is movable from a deployed position to a stowed position, wherein the stowed position is (i) above; (ii) below; or (iii) to a side of the backboard and is (i) co-planar to; or (ii) behind a plane of the backboard.

[0167] As previously stated, detailed embodiments of the present disclosure are provided herein; however, it is to be understood that the disclosed embodiments are merely examples of the present disclosure that may be embodied in various forms. It will be appreciated that many modifications and other variations stand within the intended scope of this present disclosure as claimed below. Furthermore, the foregoing description of various embodiments does not necessarily imply exclusion. For example, “some” embodiments may include all or part of “other” and “further” embodiments within the scope of this present disclosure. In addition, “a” does not mean “one and only one;” “a” can mean “one and more than one.”Industrial Applicability

[0168] The sports equipment industry provides devices for their customers to participate in various sporting games. A portion of those devices are dedicated to training for these games. In the game of basketball, players shoot a ball into a rim, sometimes after intentionally bouncing the ball off a backboard. Some players practice extensively to develop an intuitive understanding of successful trajectories. The current disclosure proposes an imaginary rim as a practicable target and describes a device that visualizes the location of said imaginary rim in a reflective element for training bank shots. By producing the device, the sports equipment industry could provide its customers with a means to more quickly develop the skill of shooting bank shots during play and competition by helping them mentally visualize and aim at said imaginary rim.

Claims

AMENDED CLAIMS received by the International Bureau on 25 November 2025 (25.11.2025)

1. An aiming device, comprising: a reflective element (1) capable of being affixed and positioned by at least one fastener relative to a backboard and a rim affixed to the backboard, and (2) capable of producing a virtual rim image that (i) is visible to a player at any shootable point in front of the reflective element and (ii) shows to the player all or most of the virtual rim; and the reflective element and the backboard are oriented in parallel and separated by a non-zero distance, the distance between the reflective element and the backboard being (i) equal to a radius of a basketball minus a proper fraction of the radius that is determined by the coefficient of restitution of the ball when bouncing off the backboard, and (ii) sufficient to position the center of the virtual rim image so that a ball shot at the center of the virtual rim image will impact the backboard and enter the rim.

2. An aiming device, comprising: a backboard; a rim affixed to the backboard; a reflective element capable of producing a virtual rim image that (i) is visible to a player at any shootable point in front of the reflective element and (ii) shows to the player all or most of the virtual rim; and at least one fastener to affix and position the reflective element relative to the backboard, wherein the reflective element and the backboard are oriented in parallel and separated by a non-zero distance, the distance between the reflective element and the backboard being (i) equal to a radius of a basketball minus a proper fraction of the radius that is determined by the coefficient of restitution of the ball when bouncing off the backboard, and (ii) sufficient to position the center of the virtual rim image so that a ball shot at the center of the virtual rim image will impact the backboard and enter the rim.

3. The aiming device of claim 1, wherein the reflective element is independent of the backboard, and wherein the reflective element is connectable to a movable base, the movable base further comprising: at least one wheel; a vertical member; a support for the reflective element; andan anchoring member, wherein the anchoring member is disposed on the reflective element and secures the reflective element to the backboard.

4. The aiming device of claim 1 or the aiming device of claim 2, wherein the distance between the reflective element and the backboard is (i) reduced by adjusting the at least one fastener in a first direction, and (ii) increased by adjusting the at least one fastener in a second direction.

5. The aiming device of claim 1 or the aiming device of claim 2, wherein the aiming device further comprises a scale disposed on the aiming device, the scale comprising a measurement device, and an adjustable fastener.

6. The aiming device of claim 1 or the aiming device of claim 2, wherein the aiming device further comprises a scale disposed on the aiming device, the scale comprising a measurement device, and an adjustable fastener, wherein: the scale is positioned proximate the distance between the reflective element and the backboard; and the adjustable fastener is manipulated to change the distance between the reflective element and the backboard.

7. The aiming device of claim 1 or the aiming device of claim 2, wherein the aiming device further comprises a locking mechanism to secure the reflective element at one or more predetermined offsets from the backboard, and wherein the one or more predetermined offsets corresponds to the distance required to accommodate (i) the radii of basketballs of different sizes or (ii) coefficients of restitution specific to different basketballs or (iii) both features (i) and (ii).

8. The aiming device of claim 1 or the aiming device of claim 2, wherein the at least one fastener is adjustable to change a position and an orientation of the reflective element for calibration, and wherein the reflective element further comprises a quickconnect fastener system.

9. The aiming device of claim 1 or the aiming device of claim 2, wherein the reflective element is connected to a slidable member capable of lowering the reflective element below the lower portion of the backboard.

10. The aiming device of claim 1 or the aiming device of claim 2, wherein the reflective element further comprises a retraction system, the retraction system further comprising: a hinge disposed between the reflective element and the backboard; and a spring disposed proximate the hinge,wherein the retraction system allows the reflective element to deflect to a predetermined angle when contacted by the player or the basketball and return to its original position after the contact concludes.

11. The aiming device of claim 1 or the aiming device of claim 2, wherein the reflective element further comprises: horizontal extensions; and vertical extensions, wherein the horizontal extensions and vertical extensions expand a plane of reflection visible to the player.

12. An aiming device, comprising: a backboard; a rim; a reflective element capable of producing a virtual rim image that (i) is visible to a player at any shootable point in front of the reflective element and (ii) shows to the player all or most of the virtual rim; at least one fastener to affix and position the reflective element relative to the backboard, wherein the reflective element and the backboard are oriented in parallel and separated by a non-zero distance, the distance between the reflective element and the backboard being (i) equal to a radius of a basketball minus a proper fraction of the radius that is determined by the coefficient of restitution of the ball when bouncing off the backboard, and (ii) sufficient to position the center of the virtual rim image so that a ball shot at the center of the virtual rim image will impact the backboard and enter the rim; a scale disposed proximate the reflective element, the scale further comprising a measurement device and an adjustable fastener to indicate and set the distance between the reflective element and the backboard; a locking mechanism to secure the reflective element at one or more predetermined offsets from the backboard; a retraction system comprising at least one hinge and at least one spring, wherein the reflective element is capable of deflecting toward the backboard when contacted by the player or the basketball and returning to its original position after contact.

13. A method of training bank shots on a backboard comprising: obtaining the backboard and a rim; optionally affixing the rim to the backboard; optionally installing the rim and the backboard on a basketball court; obtaining a reflective element;attaching a reflective element mounting mechanism to the reflective element and the backboard, the method further comprising: positioning the reflective element parallel to and at a non-zero distance, the distance between the reflective element and the backboard being (i) equal to a radius of a basketball minus a proper fraction of the radius that is determined by the coefficient of restitution of the ball when bouncing off the backboard, and (ii) sufficient to position the center of the virtual rim image so that a ball shot at the center of the virtual rim image will impact the backboard and enter the rim; identifying a virtual rim image in the reflective element; aiming at the virtual rim image corresponding to an impact location on the backboard; and shooting the basketball at the virtual rim image such that the basketball contacts the impact location and enters the rim to complete the bank shot.STATEMENT UNDER ARTICLE 19 (1 )Two important changes were made in this Article 19 amendment to better distinguish the current invention from that of Spencer in US 2004 / 0192476 A1 .1 . Text describing the distance between the reflective element and the backboard as proportional to the basketball’s radius has been rewritten with a two-term definition. The first term is the radius of a basketball being shot. This is important because it is the center of the ball that is equidistant from the center of the real rim and the center of the virtual rim image when the ball impacts the backboard. Having the mirror at the same distance as the radius of the basketball creates a virtual rim image at the right distance from the real rim, making the virtual rim image a functional target. The second term is an adjustment factor that (a) compensates for the effects of inelastic collisions and (b) is based on the coefficient of restitution. Spencer does not teach or fairly suggest a need to compensate for the effects of inelasticity. Applying the two-term definition, the resulting non-zero distance separating the reflective element from the backboard makes the virtual rim image of the current invention distinct from the reflection of the rim shown in Fig. 7 and 8 of Spencer. This is because his mirror is necessarily in the plane of the backboard and therefore the distance is effectively zero (or a negligible thickness of the mirror).

2. Text was added to emphasize that in the current disclosure the player sees all or most of the virtual rim image. Because Spencer uses a reflected bulls-eye as the target in the 2ndembodiment of his invention rather than the reflection of the rim, the mirror does not need to be large. The resulting small mirror size results in only a portion of the reflected rim being visible. Spencer does not teach or fairly suggest the need for a larger mirror because the bulls-eye is the target and it can be seen in the smaller mirror.

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